Well, 'The Godfather' is often at the top of the list. It has been adapted into an iconic movie, but the book itself is a masterpiece. It shows how family and business intertwine in the world of the mafia.
For me, '1984' by George Orwell is a top choice. It's a dystopian novel that warns about the dangers of totalitarianism. The concepts in this book are still relevant today, and it makes you think about privacy, freedom, and the power of the state.
Among the best in 2016 fiction are 'LaRose' which is a very emotional and deep story about two families. 'The Vegetarian' is quite unique. It's not just about a diet choice but about a woman's inner struggle and her relationship with the world. 'Commonwealth' is also excellent as it shows how one event can have a ripple effect on multiple lives over time.
Well, 'Station Eleven' was a great 2014 fiction book. It had a unique take on a post - apocalyptic world. Also, 'The Miniaturist' was quite good. The setting in Amsterdam and the mystery around the miniaturist made it a really interesting read. 'The Rosie Project' was also popular for its light - hearted and humorous take on love and relationships.
The book 'Yellowface' by R.F. Kuang is a great one in 2023 fiction. It delves into issues like cultural appropriation in the publishing world in a satirical and thought - provoking way.
The book 'Remote Control' by Nnedi Okorafor is one of the best in 2020 fiction. It's a science - fiction story set in a post - apocalyptic Africa. The main character has a special power and her journey is both exciting and thought - provoking. Also, 'Interior Chinatown' by Charles Yu is a great read. It's a satirical take on the Asian - American experience in Hollywood and in society at large. It has a really creative structure and engaging story.
Erle Stanley Gardner's Perry Mason series is quite famous. These books feature the brilliant lawyer Perry Mason who always manages to solve the mystery and win the case for his clients. They are a great example of classic fictional lawyer stories.
In 2018, 'An American Marriage' by Tayari Jones was highly regarded. It was a powerful story about a young African - American couple dealing with the husband's wrongful imprisonment. The book really showed the impact on their relationship and on their individual lives.
I think 'Dune' by Frank Herbert is a top - notch nerdy fiction book. It has a complex political and ecological story set in a far - flung future. 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons is also great. The way it weaves together different stories in a science - fiction epic is really engaging. And 'Watership Down' by Richard Adams, while it may seem like a simple story about rabbits, has a lot of depth and is loved by nerdy readers for its exploration of society and leadership.
I think 'The Perfect Pass' is a great football fiction book. It has a really engaging plot that revolves around a young football player trying to make it big. The characters are well - developed and it gives a good sense of the competitiveness in the football world.
I would say 'Harry Potter' first. It has not only made a huge impact on popular culture but also has a very well - crafted story. Then, 'The Once and Future King' by T.H. White has elements of wizardry with Merlin as a key character. It's a great retelling of the Arthurian legend. Also, 'Good Omens' by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman has some wizard - like characters and a very humorous and engaging story.